DreamYard + Marble Hill High School

Garlic Mustard: Invasive to Productive

Anahi Castillo Suarez, Bruce Moran Lucio, Gisel Perez, Isabella Rodriguez, Joy Mclean, Mahfuja Norwin, Raylin Delarosa, Samira Rimi, Zain Alsabagh

Garlic Mustard: Invasive to Productive reframes the narrative around Garlic Mustard, one of North America's most persistent invasive species introduced from Europe. The team researched the plant's history and horticulture, tracing its original utility to explore whether those benefits remain viable today. Through experimentation, they investigated how Garlic Mustard can contribute to industries such as fashion and healthcare. The project also examines strategies to mitigate its ecological harm in non-native environments — and considers what this reveals about the plant's role in its original European habitat.

Elaine Sosa is a Teaching Artist with DreamYard Project, where she leads creative learning experiences in fine arts and fashion garment construction. With over 10 years of experience in the arts, Elaine is passionate about helping young people develop creative skills and express themselves through design and visual storytelling. She holds a high school diploma in fashion studies and a college degree in fashion design. Elaine is the founder of Una Buena Vibra, a creative initiative that celebrates culture, art, and community. She has maintained a teaching residency with DreamYard for three years, supporting youth arts education in the Bronx. In addition to her artistic work, Elaine is deeply involved in community leadership, serving as President of the Parent Association at Bronx Arts and Multimedia Charter School and Co-President of District 8.

Nicholas Pesola has taught at Marble Hill School for International Studies since 2003. He introduced the technology program to the school in 2018 to help underrepresented students find their voice and agency in the tech-driven future. Besides introducing computer, technology, and CTE classes in the school, his Tech Club has achieved State Finalists in the Samsung Solve For Tomorrow competition twice in four years.